Dashain Festival in Nepal 2025 - Date, History, Culture, and Celebration
A Nepali family celebrating Dashain
Dashain is one of the biggest festivals in Nepal. The festival shares its roots with the neighboring country, India. Here, the people call it Dussehra. October is the month when good triumphed over evil. Dashain and Dussehra are celebrations of it.
Travelling during the festival is a magical feeling. While the reason for the festival is the same, there are a few changes in India and Nepal. The way of celebration sees subtle changes other than the differences in name.
India shares their celebration with grand spectacles. The Indian Dussehra sees a dramatic Ramlila, a traditional performance of the Ramayan. It ends with the burning of Ravana’s effigy.
While in Nepal, the citizens celebrate Dashain among their relatives. It works to lessen the distance in their relationships. The Nepali family put on the sacred tika to celebrate the festival.
What’s the date of Dussehra and Dashain in 2025?
The main day of Dashain and Dussehra begins on the same date. Both festivals start in late September and end in early October. The Dussehra and Dashain dates for 2025 are from September 22nd to October 6th, and the Tika is on October 2nd. Both originated from a single point. And it is the defeat of evil.
Dusshera, or Vijayadashami, is a Hindu festival. It stemmed from the story of Ram's (God) victory over Ravana (the Demon). Or the story of goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. Moreover, it’s also linked to the Mahabharata. Vijayadashami also marks the day Arjuna defeated the Kauravas.
So, when are Dashain and Dussehra celebrated? In essence, they share the same date. But Dashain lasts much longer than Dussehra. Now, let’s talk about some subtle differences.
Dussehra (India):
In India, Dussehra begins with Navratri on September 22. For nine nights, Hindus in India worship nine forms of the Goddess Durga. Here are the nine days before Dussehra:
The tenth day officially marks the start of Vijayadashami. And on October 2, Dussehra will be celebrated in 2025.
Dates:
Durga Puja (Navratri) begins on September 22,
Dussehra (Vijayadashami) falls on October 2, 2025.
Significance:
Victory of good over evil – Lord Rama defeats Ravana, Goddess Durga defeats Mahishasura.
Highlights:
Dance rituals like Garba and Dandiya,
Elaborately decorated Durga pandals,
Vibrant street celebrations that bring communities together.
Dashain (Nepal):
In Nepal, the people use the Bikram Sambat Hindu calendar system. And on the Sambat calendar, Dashain usually is in Ashwin. In 2025 A.D. or 2082 B.S., people of Nepal will start the festival on the 6th of Ashwin with Ghatasthapana.
On Ghatasthapana, Hindu people in Nepal establish a pot. The pot symbolizes Kalash and invokes the goddess, Durga. Barley seeds are sown in a pot. The seeds later germinate into Jamara. Jamara is used to bless youngsters on the tenth day.
Dates:
September 22, 2025, A.D. or Ashwin 06, 2082 B.S. (Ghatasthapana)
Dashain ends on October 06, 2025 (Kojagarat Purnima).
Dashain is the Longest and most important festival in Nepal. It is celebrated for 15 days.
Significance:
Dashain honors the goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. It is also a time for family reunions, blessings from elders, and spiritual renewal.
Highlights:
Planting of jamara
Phulpati Procession
Sacrifices on Maha Ashtami
Tika ceremony on Vijaya Dashami
Family traditions across the country
Why are Dashain or Dussehra celebrated?
People of Nepal hold the Dashain festival to celebrate the victory of good over evil. To be more specific, Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. The story of Mahishasura’s defeat is the most prominent reason why we celebrate Dashain.
According to the Puranas, Mahishasura, a demon, earned a boon. It made him almost immortal. He gained the boon from Brahma, the creator of the Universe. Mahishasura asked that no god or man could kill him. The demon was rather confident that no woman could slay him.
The trinity of Hinduism, that’s Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma, created Durga. Goddess Durga is also known as Mahadevi, or the supreme goddess. It took exactly ten days for Mahadevi to slay Mahishasura.
Mahadevi’s victory over Mahishasura is the reason for Nepalis celebrating Dashain. India follows the tale as well. But they also celebrate the festival in Rama’s victory over Ravana. Lord Rama slayed Ravana after worshipping Durga on the day of Vijaya Dashami, the tenth day of their war.
Ramayana plays a crucial part in Dussehra. In many places, people perform Ramlila on Dussehra. And at the end, they burn an effigy of Ravana, signifying the good’s victory over evil.
What are the 9 Days leading up to Dussehra?
Before Dussehra, there are nine nights of worship to the nine forms of goddess Durga. Dussehra is the celebration of good’s victory over evil. Navratri is dedicated to the goddess Durga, and her nine forms represent.
Day 1, September 22: Shaliputri, also the daughter of the Himalayas. She represents foundations and stability.
Day 2, September 23: Brahmacharini, the goddess of penance and devotion. She symbolizes austerity and spiritual practice.
Day 3, September 24: Chandraghanta, the goddess who wears a bell-shaped ornament. She represents courage, bravery, and peace.
September 25, Day 4: Kushmanda, the creator of the universe. She symbolizes cosmic energy and creation.
September 26, Day 5: Skandamata, the mother of Lord Kartikeya. She represents motherhood, nurturing, and protection.
September 27, Day 6: Katyayani, the warrior goddess. She is the strength, courage, and ability to conquer evil.
Day 7, September 28: Kalaratri, she is the fierce and dark form of Durga. She represents the destruction of negativity and Evil forces.
Day 8, September 29: Mahagauri, the goddess of purity and serenity. She symbolizes peace, calmness, and spiritual enlightenment.
Day 9, September 30: Siddhidatri, the bestower of supernatural powers and fulfillment. She symbolizes the achievement of goals and spiritual enlightenment.
How long is Dashain celebrated?
The celebration days are the biggest change in these two festivals. Dussehra is a single day of celebration after the Navratri. So, people celebrate Dashain for a whopping fifteen days.
Day 1, Ghatasthapana – Installing the sacred jamara seeds. This marks the start of our devotion to Goddess Durga.
Day 7, Phulpati – Royal procession of sacred flowers. Nine sacred flowers and plants are sent from Gorkha Durbar to Hanuman Dhoka.
Day 8, Maha Ashtami – Fierce worship of Goddess Kali. In many areas, devotees sacrifice buffalo and goats to the goddess.
Day 9, Maha Navami – Celebration of Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. It also honors the divine feminine power.
Day 10, Vijaya Dashami – It is the main day of Dashain. On Tika Day, elders bless the young with Jamara and Tika, mostly red tika. Some ethnic groups were white tika.
Day 15, Kojagarat Purnima – It signifies the end of Dashain. It is also the night of the goddess of wealth, Laxmi.
Note:
Dashain emphasizes family reunions, blessings, and community renewal.
Where to Celebrate Dussehra or Dashain as a Traveler?
At its core, Dussehra and Dashain celebrate good winning against evil. Moreover, both festivals originate from the Ramayana. Nepal and India have different ways to celebrate it.
India is known for celebrating Dussehra in a loud fashion. But Nepal’s way of celebration is more intimate and family-oriented. So, where should you go to celebrate Dussehra/Dashain? Nepal or India?
India:
Varanasi –
To witness the epic Ramlila performance, Varanasi is your destination. They offer a stage performance of Ramayana on the ghats of the Ganges. Likewise, it ends with the symbolic burning of Ravana’s effigy.
Mysuru –
One of India’s most regal festivals is held in Mysuru. Witness the grand Mysore Dasara parades. You’ll find majestically decorated elephants, traditional music, and illuminated places.
Kolkata –
Find yourself at the heart of Durga Puja. The city transforms with elaborate pandals and intricate idols. Lose yourself in the rituals and cultural performance. It is the perfect place for festival lovers and photographers.
Ahmedabad –
Join the thousands of locals in colourful attire for Garba and Dandiya Raas. Find a high-energy dance celebration during the Navratri. It showcases Gujarat’s hospitality and vibrant spirit.
Nepal:
Kathmandu Valley –
Explore a mix of urban rituals and family traditions. Visit ancient temples and observe the Phulpati procession at Hanuman Dhoka. You can witness public animal sacrifices at Durbar Square. Ideal for cultural observers and first-time visitors.
Bhaktapur –
Step into a living museum during Dashain. The town offers intimate, traditional ceremonies, including the fierce worship of Goddess Durga. It holds centuries-old rituals in beautifully preserved courtyards.
Pokhara –
Celebrate Dashain with a scenic mountain backdrop. The city slows down as families reunite for Tika blessings and goat feasts. It is a great choice for travellers seeking a calm yet culturally rich holiday.
Chitwan & Rural Villages –
For an authentic homestay experience, consider rural areas. You can observe animal sacrifices and take part in household blessings. It’s perfect for those looking to connect with Nepali life beyond the tourist trail.
Travel Tips for Festival Season
The magical experience of Dashain and Dussehra lasts a lifetime. During these festivals, many of the country’s services slow down. As such, here are a few tips for travellers during the Dashain and Dussehra season.
Book Early: October is a peak travel season in both India and Nepal. Flights, trains, and accommodations fill up quickly. Don’t wait for the last minute to book a room. On key festival dates, Ghatasthapana or Phulpati.
Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or attending rituals. Never forget to ask for permission before photographing religious ceremonies or family gatherings.
Taste the Traditions: Festivals are a feast for the senses. Don’t miss Sel Roti, goat curry, and homemade raksi (rice wine) in Nepal. Or indulge in sweets like laddus, jalebi, and festive thalis in India.
Expect Limited Services: During Dashain, much of Nepal slows. Government offices, shops, and transportation services have reduced hours. Most people return to their hometowns to celebrate Dashain.
Cultural Highlights and Photogenic Moments of Dashain
Dashain offers a rich cultural experience. Likewise, it has some of the most photogenic moments at any festival in Nepal.
Tika & Jamara Blessings:
One of the most iconic moments of Dashain is the tika and Jamara blessing. Elders place a red or white tika on the forehead. They then put Jamara on the ear.
Temples Decorated in Marigolds:
Sacred sites across Nepal remain adorned with bright marigolds. Incense and offerings to Durga and Kali fill temples.
Oil Lamps & Ritual Offerings:
During the Kojagarat Purnima, homes and temples glow with oil lamps. This creates a magical evening scene.
Traditional Dress & Family Gatherings:
Capture the locals wearing the Daura Suruwal and Gunyo Cholo. People in traditional attire during family rituals and gatherings bring a stunning image.
Animal Sacrifices (Optional):
While controversial, animal sacrifices during Dashain are an important part of the ritual. If you choose to photograph this, do so with extreme sensitivity and discretion.
Why You Should Travel During Dussehra or Dashain?
October is more than just a peak tourist season in Nepal. It is also the gateway to the heart of its living traditions. Here are some points why you should visit Nepal or India during Dashain or Dussehra:
Witness Mythology Come to Life:
The time to experience Ramlila dramas in India and Durga worship in Nepal. You’ll see ancient epics and legends transformed into vivid, real-world rituals.
Discover a Shared Cultural Thread:
There’s a slight difference between the celebrations. But Dashain and Dussehra reflect a common heritage. Find the heritage of Dharma, Devotion, and victory over darkness.
Celebrate Renewal & Family Bonds:
Dashain and Dussehra are celebrated to build relationships. There is a renewal of spirit and a sense of deep-rooted belonging in both.
Connect with Local Traditions:
These festivals connect you with families, rituals, and share in feasts. It creates an authentic travel experience that goes far beyond sightseeing.
October 2025 Festival Calendar in Nepal
October brings many things to Nepal. The country brims with festivals and seasonal energy. Here are a few things to look forward to in October 2025 in Nepal.
Dashain (Sep 22– Oct 6) –
Dashain is an important and widely celebrated festival in Nepal. It brings families together, a tika blessing, and national unity. Expect vibrant traditions across the country.
Kartik Naach (Bhaktapur) –
It is a series of classical dance-dramas held in Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It recounts Hindu epics with elaborate masks, costumes, and music. The festival is a must-see for any culture lover.
Tihar/Diwali (Oct 18- Oct 23) –
After finishing up with Dashain, families in Nepal welcome Tihar. It is the festival of light. The market is filled with diyas, flowers, and sweets. The houses are filled with lights and flower decorations. People visit their friends and family, playing Deusi and Bhailo.
Harvest festivals and the mountain trekking season –
October is a peak trekking season in Nepal. It offers clear skies, crisp air, and mountain trails buzzing with travellers. Moreover, the denizens of Nepal harvest crops in October.
How do Nepalis celebrate Dashain?
Nepalese people are often seen buying new clothes, flying kites, playing cards, swings, and Ferris wheels during Dashain.
Buying new clothes:
Shopping for new clothes has been a tradition in Dashain. The people of the rural area specially the ones who are financially backward mostly only buy new clothes during the time of Dashain. The shops will offer sales/discounts during this period which attracts a massive crowd in clothing stores.
Flying Kites:
Flying the kites actually symbolizes stopping the rain in mythology. However, the kids and teenagers fly kites during Dashain for fun and compete with each other to achieve the most ‘Changa Chet’, which is Nepali slang that means receiving victory by cutting other competitors’ kites.
Playing Cards:
The tradition of playing cards in Dashain is to sit together with your family and have a good time. People also bet the money from their Dakshina to play cards.
Playing Swings & Ferris Wheel:
Many people still swing from bamboo and ropes in near-empty land. People gather together to play with swings. The mythology of playing swing is to leave the ground at least once a year, to relish the freedom, and to make your path to heaven. Also, a few small Mela (fairs) are organized during Dashain, and you can ride the Ferris wheel there.
Conclusion
In October 2025, Nepal offers more than a trip. It promises a soulful journey through faith, festivity, and family. Receive Tika and Jamara in the warmth of a Nepali family. You will not only witness something timeless, but you will also be a part of it.
Dashain and Dussehra open you up to the spiritual heartbeat of Nepal and India. Here, mythology lives, traditions thrive, and connections run deep. Visit not just to watch, but to take part and connect through these festivals.
FAQs on Dussehra and Dashain
When are the Dussehra and Dashain festivals in 2025?
Dussehra is on October 2. Dashain begins on September 22 or Ashwin 06.
Are Dussehra and Dashain the same festival?
They share a common root, the victory of good over evil. But Dussehra and Dashain differ in duration, regional expression, and customs.
Can tourists take part in Dashain or Dussehra?
Yes. Tourists can take part in Tika ceremonies and temple rituals in Nepal. Moreover, Nepal offers homestays and cultural programs. Guests can join a Nepali family and experience the culture.
What should I wear during the Dashain festival?
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially in family homes and temples. You can wear light traditional clothes. Attire like a kurta, a sari, or a Daura Suruwal is welcome but not required.
